Hi
Link here for GeForce FX 5500
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=33142For the 6800, have you tried CTRL/ALT/F1
then type sudo envy? This will install the Nvidia drivers,
If you still have no joy type
sudo dpkg-reconfigure xserver-xorg
Back up your xorg.conf file first! its in etc /X11
It could be a chipset problem rather than a driver
problem.
Nick

The one thing I can't understand is that the most basic thing a computer needs is a working display, something I would imagine (if I was responsible for a distro) that would just work without putting the user through hoops.

Getting VGA cards to work on Linux would be the number one issue that ruins it.

I hate to say it but in this case Microsoft Windows is so easy, "setup.exe" and your VGA card works.

Hi
Not to sure what the problem is? have three computers running with Nvidia cards on Linux and no problems.(and not for many years)
Did you try the Envy command? If you follow instructions it should automatically download and install driver.
Typing sudo envy is as easy as setup.exe But do not forget the Ctrl/ALT/F1 which will take you to a "blank screen"
Another method to try is to install Automatix,
follow instrutions here:
http://getautomatix.com/wiki/index.php? ... .28Edgy.29then once it is installed, run and tick "install Nvidia Drivers"
You are trying this on an installed system and not a live disc? What is you monitor?
Nvidia drivers generally work in Linux and have done for along while I tend to find Ati more problematical
Nick